Air fryer penne pasta chips are a crunchy snack that uses just a few pantry items. They taste like a cross between croutons and fried namkeen. You boil the pasta, toss it with spices, and let the air fryer do the rest. Better still, they need very little oil.
Why Penne Works So Well for Pasta Chips
Penne has a tube shape and firm walls. As a result, it crisps up evenly and keeps a satisfying bite. The ridges also hold seasoning well. Bambino Penne Pasta cooks to a good al dente, which matters here. Soft, overcooked pasta turns chewy instead of crunchy. You can see more shapes in the Bambino pasta collection.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
200 g penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon mixed herbs
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Salt to taste
Optional: cheese powder, black pepper, or onion powder
How to Make Air Fryer Penne Pasta Chips
First, boil the penne in salted water until al dente. Do not cook it until soft.
Next, drain the pasta well. Spread it on a clean kitchen towel for a few minutes to remove extra moisture.
Then place the pasta in a bowl. Add the olive oil, garlic powder, herbs, chili powder, and salt. Mix until every piece is coated.
Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 200°C.
Add the seasoned pasta to the basket in a single layer.
Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through.
Finally, check for a golden colour and a crisp feel. Let the chips cool for two minutes, since they harden as they cool.
Tips for Extra Crunchy Pasta Chips
Small steps make a big difference to your air fryer penne pasta chips.
Drain the pasta well. Water is the main enemy of crispness.
Do not crowd the basket. Cook in two batches if needed.
Use only a little oil. Too much makes the chips greasy.
Shake the basket at the halfway mark. This helps the pieces brown evenly.
Cool the chips fully before you taste them. They crisp up as they rest.
Flavour Ideas to Try
The pasta acts as a neutral base, so you can season it in many ways. For example, try Italian seasoning with garlic powder for a pizza-style snack. Chaat masala and chili powder give a spicy Indian twist. Cheese powder with paprika makes a rich, savoury version. If you prefer something simple, salt, pepper, and herbs work well too.
Best Dips to Serve With Them
Pasta chips need a good dip. Mint chutney adds a cool, fresh bite. Tomato salsa gives a tangy lift. In addition, a creamy garlic mayo or hung curd dip balances the spice. For parties, set out two or three dips and let guests pick their favourite.
How to Store Leftover Chips
Let the chips cool completely first. Then store them in an airtight container. They stay crisp for a day or two. If they soften, put them back in the air fryer for a minute or two at 180°C.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer penne pasta chips are quick, fun, and easy to customise. They suit movie nights, tea-time cravings, and small get-togethers. You only need boiled penne, a few spices, and about 25 minutes. For the original method and FAQs, visit the Air-Fryer Penne Pasta Chips Recipe on the Bambino Pasta blog. You can also find more ideas on the Bambino recipes page.
